Tailgate latching mechanisms

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle generally includes a latch, a keeper, and a member for rotating the keeper relative to the latch. The member is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position. The latch includes a latching surface, and the keeper includes a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface. The latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position. To disengage the latching surface from the keeper surface, the member is rotated from the first position towards the second position, which, in turn, causes the keeper to rotate and to pivotally move the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/706,991 filed Aug. 10, 2005, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to tailgate latching mechanisms.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People commonly drive pickup trucks and other vehicles that have tailgates. Usually, the tailgate includes a latching mechanism for latching the tailgate to the vehicle. The latching mechanism should prevent the tailgate from opening on its own, such as due to the impact of a shifting load against the tailgate. Tailgates may also have a lock for preventing someone from opening the tailgate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle generally includes a latch, a keeper, and a member for rotating the keeper relative to the latch. The member is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position. The latch includes a latching surface, and the keeper includes a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface. The latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position. To disengage the latching surface from the keeper surface, the member is rotated from the first position towards the second position, which, in turn, causes the keeper to rotate and to pivotally move the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

In another aspect, a tailgate latching mechanism generally includes a latch and a keeper. The latch has a latching surface and a camming surface generally opposite the latching surface. The latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position. The keeper has a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface, a camming surface generally opposite the keeper surface, and a tang extending in a direction generally outwardly away from the keeper surface. To disengage the latching surface from the keeper surface, the keeper is rotated such that the tang contacts the latch causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position. In addition, closing the tailgate positions the keeper's camming surface into contact with the latch's camming surface, which, in turn, causes pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position. This allows the latching surface to be moved across the keeper beyond the keeper surface for engaging the keeper surface.

In a further aspect, a tailgate latching mechanism generally includes a member having a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with a hinge axis of the tailgate. The member is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between at least a first position and a second position. A handle is coupled to the member for common rotation therewith for allowing a user to rotate the handle and the member coupled thereto from the first position towards the second position. A latch having a latching surface is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position. A keeper is mounted at an end portion of the member for common rotation therewith about the member's longitudinal axis. The keeper includes a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface. To disengage the latching surface from the keeper surface, the member is rotated from the first position towards the second position by using the handle. This, in turn, rotates the keeper and pivotally moves the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

Further aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a tailgate having a latching mechanism according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 1 illustrating the tailgate in a closed position;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 1 with portions of the tailgate and vehicle removed for clarity in order to better illustrate the tailgate latching mechanism;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the tailgate latching mechanism shown in FIG. 3 and illustrating the latch's camming surface in contact with the keeper's camming surface;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the tailgate latching mechanism shown in FIG. 3 and illustrating the latch in contact with the keeper surface;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the tailgate latching mechanism shown in FIG. 3 and illustrating the keeper's tang in contact with the latch;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the tailgate latching mechanism shown in FIG. 3 and illustrating the latching surface engaged with the keeper surface;

FIG. 8 is a partial rear view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 1 with a portion removed for clarity in order to better illustrate various components of the tailgate latching mechanism, including the member extending across the tailgate, the keeper disposed at one end portion of the member, the torsion spring that biases the member in a closed position, and the handle coupled to the member;

FIG. 9 is a partial rear view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a partial rear view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 9 with a portion removed in order to better illustrate various components of the tailgate latching mechanism, including the coil spring that biases the latch in a closed position;

FIG. 11 is a rear view of the tailgate shown in FIG. 1 illustrating a tailgate latching mechanism at each side of the tailgate;

FIG. 12 is a side view of a tailgate (with portions of the tailgate and vehicle removed for clarity) wherein the tailgate includes another embodiment of a tailgate latching mechanism having a latch pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot positioned relative to the latching surface such that the moment created by a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface biases the latch towards the closed position;

FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C are respective inside, rear, and outside views of another embodiment of a tailgate latching mechanism having a stop for inhibiting pivoting movement of the latch; and

FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C are respective inside, rear, and outside views of the tailgate latching mechanism shown in FIG. 13 and illustrating the stop in a position in which the stop does not interfere with the pivotal movement of the latch.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding features throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The following description of various embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its applications, or uses.

FIGS. 1 through 10 illustrate one embodiment of a tailgate latching mechanism 100 that can be used to latch a tailgate 102 to a vehicle's supporting structure 104. While the illustrated embodiments depict the latching mechanism 100 being used with a tailgate of a pickup truck, aspects of the invention are not so limited, as embodiments of the latching mechanism can be relatively easily adapted for a wide range of vehicles having tailgates, including pickup trucks, large commercial-type trucks, station wagons, hatchbacks, among other vehicles. Accordingly, the specific references to tailgates or trucks herein should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention to any specific form/type of vehicle.

The description of the tailgate 102 and its mounting arrangement to the vehicle supporting structure 104 is provided for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, as aspects of the invention can be used with a wide range of other tailgates and doors. Accordingly, aspects of the invention should not be limited to use with any specific form/type of tailgate or be limited to use with just tailgates.

With further reference to FIG. 1, the tailgate 102 can be maintained in a generally horizontal lowered position by a pair of links 106 and 108. As shown in FIG. 3, the link 106 has a first end portion 110 pivotably connected to the vehicle supporting structure 104 by a pivot 112. A second end portion 114 of the link 106 is pivotably connected by a pivot 116 with an end portion 118 of the link 108. The other end portion 120 of the link 108 is pivotably connected to the tailgate 102 by a pivot 122. A wide range of means (e.g., rivets, pins, etc.) can be employed for pivotably connecting the links 106 and 108 to one another and to the tailgate 102 and vehicle structure 104. As an alternative, the pair of links can be replaced with a flexible member, such as cable or chain, for example.

The tailgate 102 includes a lower edge portion 124 that is hingedly coupled 126 to the vehicle supporting structure 104. This allows the tailgate 102 to be hingedly moved between the opened position (FIG. 1) and the closed position (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the hinge 126 and links 106, 108 are configured such that the tailgate 102 can be relatively easily removed and separated from the vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 1, the latching mechanism 100 is operatively associated with the side 105 of the tailgate 102. In various embodiments, another latching mechanism 100 can be provided symmetrically positioned on the other side 107 of the tailgate 102 (as shown in FIG. 11). Alternatively, other embodiments can include only one tailgate latching mechanism for the tailgate. For example, some station wagons include a tailgate having one side vertically hinged to the vehicle such that the tailgate can be swung open like a typical refrigerator door outward. In such embodiments, one latching mechanism can be used on the other side of the tailgate that is not hinged to the vehicle. In yet other embodiments, two or more latching mechanisms can be used on the same side of the tailgate, for example, to provide for even more secure latching of the tailgate to the vehicle support structure.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3 through 7, the latching mechanism 100 includes a latch 128 having a latching surface 130. The latch 128 is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure 104 such that the latch 128 is pivotable between an opened position and a closed position (FIGS. 3 and 7). The latching mechanism 100 also includes a keeper 132 having a keeper surface 134 configured for engagement with the latching surface 130. The latching mechanism 100 further includes a member 136 (FIG. 8) for rotating the keeper 132. The member 136 is rotatably supported by the tailgate 102 such that the member 136 is rotatable between at least a first position (FIG. 7) and a second position (FIG. 5). As described herein, rotation of the member 136 from the first position towards the second position rotates the keeper 132, which, in turn, causes pivotal movement of the latch 128 from the closed position towards the opened position. This, in turn, can disengage the latching surface 130 from the keeper surface 134.

With further regard for the latch 128, the end portion 138 of the latch 128 is disposed within a recess 141 defined by the vehicle supporting structure 104. The latch's end portion 138 is also pivotally coupled to the vehicle supporting structure 104 such that the latch 128 is pivotable between an opened position and a closed position (FIGS. 3 and 7). In the illustrated embodiment, the opened position for the latch 128 refers to a position in which the latch's end portion 142 of the latch 128 has been pivoted generally upward in the counterclockwise direction. FIGS. 3 and 7 illustrate the latch 128 in a closed position wherein the latch 128 is generally horizontal. Alternatively, the latch orientation can be reversed such that the latch is in the opened position after the free end portion of the latch has been pivoted generally downward in the clockwise direction. In other embodiments, the latch, when in the closed position, is not horizontal but instead is at an angle (e.g., acute angle, right angle or vertical, etc.) relative to the horizontal plane.

In the illustrated embodiment, the latch 128 is pivotably coupled the vehicle supporting structure 104 with a pivot 140. The pivot 140 is substantially aligned with the keeper's 132 axis of rotation. The pivot 140 is also positioned to be substantially aligned with a resultant of any load applied to the latching surface 130 by the keeper surface 134. This alignment of the pivot 140 with the load resultant eliminates the moment (or at least reduces the length of the moment arm) created by a load on the latching surface 130. As an example, the latching surface 130 may be subject to loading that occurs while transporting cargo within a pickup truck bed when that cargo pushes against the tailgate 102.

Alternatively, other pivot locations can be employed for the latch. For example, other embodiments include a latch pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot disposed relative to the latching surface such that the moment, created by a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface, biases the latch towards the closed position. In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the tailgate latching mechanism 200 includes a latch 228 pivotably mounted to the vehicle supporting structure 204 with a pivot 240 that is below the latching surface 230. With this pivot 240 location, the moment created by a load applied to the latching surface 230 by the keeper surface 234 biases the latch 228 towards the (clockwise in FIG. 12) closed position. This feature provides for a more secure engagement between the latching surface 230 and the keeper surface 234. This can be beneficial, for example, while transporting heavy cargo because the load experienced by the latching surface 230 due to the cargo pushing against the tailgate 202 helps retain the engagement of the latching surface 230 with the keeper surface 234 and inhibit inadvertent opening of the tailgate 202.

In yet another embodiment, the pivot for the latch is positioned relative to the latching surface such that the moment, created by a load applied to the latching surface by the keeper surface, biases the latch towards the opened position. This allows the latching surface to be more easily disengaged from the keeper surface, which may be beneficial for some applications.

Referring back to FIG. 3, the latch's end portion 142 includes a generally rounded end 144 and an inclined or slanting surface 146. The latching surface 130 is generally vertical when the latch 128 is in the closed position and the vehicle is on level ground. Alternative embodiments include a latching surface that is inclined or slanted relative to the vertical plane.

The latch's slanted surface 146 can operate as a camming surface, in cooperation with the keeper's camming surface 152, for causing pivotal movement of the latch 128 from the closed position towards the opened position. As shown in FIG. 4, closing the tailgate 102 positions the latch's camming surface 146 in contact with the keeper's camming surface 152 and causes pivotal movement of the latch 128 from the closed position towards the opened position. While the camming surface 146 is shown as a generally slanted surface in FIGS. 3 through 7, alternative embodiments include the camming surface 146 being generally rounded or curved. In yet other embodiments, however, the latch does not include a camming surface that acts in cooperation with a camming surface of the keeper for causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

As shown in FIG. 2, the latch 128 is configured (e.g., sized, shaped, pivotably mounted) such that at least a portion of the latch's end 144 is external to the tailgate 102 when the tailgate 102 is closed. Alternative configurations (e.g., shapes, sizes, etc.) can be employed for the latch depending, for example, on the particular application (e.g., available space, desired latching force, etc.) in which the latching mechanism will be used. For example, another embodiment includes a latch and tailgate that are sized (e.g., the latch length and tailgate thickness) such that the latch is completely within the tailgate body and thus hidden from view.

In addition, a wide range of materials can be used for the latch 128. In one embodiment, the latch 128 is formed from steel. In another embodiment, the latch 128 is formed from stainless steel. Alternatively, the latch can be formed from other materials (e.g., other metals, etc.) having sufficient strength and wear properties suitable for the particular application in which the latching mechanism will be used.

In various embodiments, one or more biasing devices can be provided for biasing the latch towards either the closed position or the opened position. For example, and as shown in FIGS. 3 through 7, the latching mechanism 100 includes a coil spring 156 having a first end portion 158 coupled to the vehicle supporting structure 104 with a nut and bolt 160. The spring 156 also includes a second end portion 162 coupled to the latch 128. In this particular embodiment, the spring 156 is a contractile coil spring that applies a biasing force to the latch 128 for biasing the latch 128 downwardly towards the closed position. In this manner, the spring 156 inhibits pivoting movement of the latch 128 towards the opened position. This feature can help prevent (or at least inhibit) the inadvertent unlatching of the latching surface 130 from the keeper surface 134, for example, while the vehicle is traveling on rough bumpy terrain.

Alternative biasing devices can also be used for biasing a latch towards either the closed position or the opened position. The particular biasing device (e.g., type, configuration, size, shape, positioning, etc.) used for a tailgate latching mechanism of the present invention can depend, for example, on the desired magnitude and direction for the biasing force to be imparted to the latch by the biasing device. By way of example only, other embodiments include other types of springs (e.g., torsion springs, leaf springs, etc.) for biasing the latch towards either the closed position or the opened position. In yet other embodiments, gravity is used for biasing the latch, such as by using the weight of the latch itself and/or by additional weights attached to the latch.

In other embodiments, a biasing device is not necessarily required and can be eliminated. For example, a biasing device can be eliminated in those embodiments in which the latch's pivot is mounted relative to the latching surface such that the moment, created by a load applied to the latching surface by the keeper surface, already sufficiently biases the latch towards the opened position.

With further regard to the keeper 132, the keeper surface 134 is configured to engage the latching surface 130 as shown in FIG. 7. The keeper surface 134 is generally vertical when engaged with the latching surface 130 and the vehicle is on level ground. Alternate embodiments include a keeper surface that is inclined or slanted relative to the vertical plane.

The keeper 132 can further include a tang or projection 164. The tang 164 extends in a direction generally outwardly away from the keeper surface 134. In various embodiments, the tang 164 is contiguous with and extends outwardly from the keeper surface 134. In other embodiments, however, a spaced distance (e.g., spaced distance in a direction into the page of the FIG. 3) separates the tang 164 from the keeper surface 134. In either case, rotating the keeper 132 causes the tang 164 to contact the latch 128 (FIG. 6), when the latching and keeper surfaces 130 and 134 are engaged, and causes pivotal movement of the latch 128 from the closed position towards the opened position. While the inclusion of the tang is preferred, the tang is not necessary or required for all embodiments. For example, alternative embodiments do not include a tang or projection that contacts the latch when the latching and keeper surfaces are engaged, and causes pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the keeper 132 also includes a camming surface 152. The camming surface 152 is generally opposite the keeper surface 134. In this particular embodiment, the camming surface 152 is generally rounded or curved. Alternatively, the camming surface can instead be inclined or slanted. In either case, closing the tailgate 102 positions the keeper's camming surface 152 into contact with the latch's camming surface 146 and causes pivotal movement of the latch 128 from the closed position towards the opened position, as shown in FIG. 4. The pivotal movement of the latch 128 towards the opened position allows the latching surface 130 to be moved across the keeper 132 and beyond the keeper surface 134 for engaging the keeper surface 134. As the tailgate 102 is being closed (as represented by the various tailgate positions depicted in FIGS. 3 through 7), the keeper 132 will ride under the latch's end portion 142 and pivot the latch 128 upward against the biasing force of the spring 156. Eventually, the latching surface 130 will be able to drop in behind the keeper surface 134.

Alternative configurations (e.g., shapes, sizes, etc.) can be employed for the keeper depending, for example, on the particular application (e.g., available space, desired latching force, etc.) in which the latching mechanism will be used.

In addition, a wide range of materials can be used for the keeper 132. In one embodiment, the keeper 132 is formed from steel. In another embodiment, the latch 128 is formed from stainless steel. Alternatively, the keeper can be formed from other materials (e.g., other metals, etc.) having sufficient strength and wear properties suitable for the particular application in which the latching mechanism will be used.

The keeper 132 is mounted to one end portion 176 of the member 136. The keeper 132 can be mounted to the member using various means, such as with welding, pins, screws, other mechanical fasteners, combinations thereof, among other suitable methods and systems, etc. In further embodiments, the keeper 132 may be an integral part of the member 136 such that the keeper 132 and member 136 are integrally formed as a single component.

In various embodiments, the keeper 132 is coupled for common rotation with the member 136 about the member's longitudinal axis. Other embodiments, however, do not include a keeper directly affixed to an end of the member. Instead, the keeper(s) can be coupled to the member through one or more gears or other linkage member(s). For example, one or more keepers can include gear teeth that are engaged with (e.g., directly engaged with, indirectly engaged via one or more intermediate gears with) teeth of a gear, which, in turn, is disposed on an end portion of the member. In such alternative embodiments, the keeper(s) can rotate in the same or the opposite direction as the member.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the member 136 comprises two separate rods 148 and 150 that meet at about the middle of the tailgate 102. A keeper 132 is welded (or otherwise disposed) at one end of each rod 148, 150. The other end of each rod 148, 150 has a slot or groove cut (or otherwise formed) in about the center of the rod's face. This groove accepts one end of the spring 170. The groove in each rod 148, 150 is the means by which the springs 170 are attached to the rods 148, 150. Alternatively, other means can be used for attaching the springs 170 to the rods 148, 150, such as cross-holes, external slots, screw attachments, etc.

In an exemplary assembly, each rod 148 and 150 has a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with the tailgate's hinge axis 126. The rods 148 and 150 are supported by the tailgate 102 such that the rods 148 and 150 are rotatable about their respective longitudinal axes between at least a first position (FIG. 7) and a second position (FIG. 5). By way of example only, the rods 148 and 150 can be supported by through-holes in the tailgate 102. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, a piece of pipe 137 is welded (or otherwise disposed) at each through-hole, which increases the bearing width of the through-holes. A bearing or bushing 139 is inserted into the pipe 137 at each through-hole to facilitate the rod's rotation (e.g., reduce friction associated therewith). The bushing 139 can be formed of a wide range of suitable materials, such as nylon, other types of plastics (e.g., acetal, polyethylene, etc.), metals (e.g., bronze, etc.), composite materials, etc. Alternatively, other means can be employed for rotatably supporting the member 136.

Each rod 148, 150 (having a keeper 132 already welded or otherwise attached thereto) is inserted into the tailgate 102, slotted end first, through bearings 139 and one leg 172 of the handle 154. Each rod 148, 150 is then engaged with one of the springs 170 by positioning one end of the spring 170 into the groove of the rod 148, 150. A spring pin 174 attaches the handle 154 to each rod 148, 150 and also rotatably secures the assembly in the tailgate 102. The other rod 148, 150 is inserted in the same way from the other end of the tailgate 102. The two rods 148, 150 preferably butt together at about the middle of the tailgate 102, thereby trapping the springs 170.

Alternatively, the member could be a single piece member; however, to facilitate assembly, at least one of the keepers would preferably be removable, and the springs would preferably be attached by alternative means such as a cross-hole, external slot, screw attachment, etc. In such embodiments, the single-piece member extends between the tailgate's sides, and has a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with the tailgate's hinge axis. The single-piece member can be supported by the tailgate such that the single-piece member is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between at least a first position and a second position. By way of example only, the single piece member can be supported by through-holes in the tailgate in a manner similar to that described above for the rods 148 and 150.

As shown in FIG. 3, the member 136 has a solid circular cross-section. Alternative cross-sectional shapes (e.g., rectangular, triangular, ovular, tubular, etc.) can also be used for the member depending on the particular application in which the latching mechanism will be used. For example, other embodiments include a hollow member in order to save weight.

As shown in FIG. 8, the handle 154 is coupled to the member 136 for common rotation therewith. In one particular embodiment, the handle 154 is attached to the rods 148 and 150 with spring pins 174. Alternatively, various other means can be used to couple the handle 154 to the rods 148 and 150.

The handle 154 is configured (e.g., sized, shaped, etc.) such that a portion 168 of the handle 154 is external to the tailgate 102 to allow a user to readily grasp and manipulate the handle 154. In one exemplary operation, the user may unlatch the latching mechanism 100 by grasping and lifting up on the handle portion 168, as represented by the various handle positions depicted in FIGS. 7, 6, and 5. This rotation of the handle 154 rotates the member 136, which, in turn, rotates the keeper(s) 132 at the end(s) 176, 178 of the member 136. The rotation of the keeper 132 causes the tang 164 to contact the latch 128 (FIG. 6) and cause pivotal movement of the latch 128 towards the opened position. With continued rotation of the keeper 132 (e.g., by continued upward lifting of the handle 154, FIG. 5) along with opening the tailgate 102, the latching surface 130 will ultimately disengage from the keeper surface 134.

In various embodiments, the latching mechanism includes one or more biasing devices for biasing the member and/or the handle towards a particular position. For example, and as shown in FIG. 8, the latching mechanism 100 includes a torsion spring 170 coupled to the handle 154 and to the tailgate 102. In this particular embodiment, the torsion spring 170 applies a biasing force to the handle 154 for biasing the handle 154 (and member 136 coupled thereto) towards the position shown in FIG. 8. Accordingly, the torsion spring 170 causes the member 136 and handle 154 (after the user releases the handle 154) to move from the position shown in FIG. 5 back to the position shown in FIG. 8.

Alternative biasing devices can also be used for biasing the handle 154 and/or member 136. The particular biasing device (e.g., type, configuration, size, shape, positioning, etc.) used for a tailgate latching mechanism of the present invention can depend, for example, on the desired magnitude and direction for the biasing force to be imparted to the handle by the biasing device. By way of example only, other embodiments include other types of springs (e.g., coil springs, leaf springs, etc.) for biasing the member and/or handle. In yet other embodiments, gravity is used for biasing the member and handle, such as by using the weight of the handle and/or by additional weights attached to the handle. In further embodiments, the latching mechanism does not include a biasing device for the member. Instead, the user may use the handle to return the member to its initial position.

In other embodiments, the handle can be relatively wide, for example, such that the handle width is about equal to the width of the tailgate. In such embodiments, a member (e.g., one or more rods) extending from one side of the tailgate to the other could be eliminated. In which case, the handle could provide the means for rotating the keeper(s). In further embodiments, a handle may be provided at each side of the tailgate such that again a member (e.g., one or more rods) extending across the tailgate would not be necessarily required. In these alternative embodiments, each handle could provide the means for rotating its corresponding keeper.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another embodiment of a tailgate latching mechanism 300. As shown, the latching mechanism 300 includes a stop 380 that is rotatable between a first position (FIG. 13) and a second position (FIG. 14). When the stop 380 is in the first position, the stop 380 contacts (or is in very close proximity to) the latch 328 in order to inhibit pivotal movement of the latch 328. This, in turn, helps maintain the engagement of the latching surface 330 (FIGS. 13A and 14A) with the keeper surface (not shown in FIGS. 13 and 14). When the stop 380 is in the second position, the stop 380 does not interfere with the pivotal movement of the latch 328.

The stop 380 is coupled to a member 382 for common rotation therewith. A projection or tab 384 extends outwardly from member 382, as shown in FIGS. 13B and 14B. This tab 384 allows a user to readily rotate the member 382 and the stop 380 coupled thereto between the first position (FIG. 13) and the second position (FIG. 14). Alternatively, other means can be employed for allowing a user to rotate the stop 380 between the first and second positions. For example, another embodiment includes a stop that can only be rotated with a key, thereby allowing the user to lock the stop in the first or second position.

In another embodiment, the stop comprises a removable pin sized to be received within an opening defined by the vehicle supporting structure. The pin and opening are configured (e.g., sized, positioned, etc.) such that when the pin is positioned within the opening, pivotal movement of the latch is prevented (or at least inhibited) by contact between the pin and the latch. In one embodiment, the opening is positioned, for example, at about (or slight lower than) where the member 382 is positioned as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. In this embodiment, the opening is immediately above the latch such that, when the pin is positioned within the opening, the pin contacts (or is in very close proximity to) the latch. In this embodiment, the pin prevents (or at least inhibits) the latch from pivoting upward. After removing the pin from the opening, however, the latch can again be pivoted upwardly. To help prevent the pin from being lost or dropped, the pin may be tethered to the tailgate, for example, with a flexible wire or cable.

In a further embodiment, the stop comprises a single actuator, such as a rotatable knob or a keyed equivalent located in about the center of the tailgate by the handle. This actuator is connected by a linkage (e.g., rods, cables, combinations thereof, etc.) to pins at each end of the tailgate. The pins extend outside of the tailgate through holes in the tailgate located just above the latches when the tailgate is in the closed position. Rotating the knob or key extends or retracts the pins to lock and unlock the tailgate.

With various embodiments of the tailgate latching mechanism, the tailgate can still be readily unlatched and opened even when pressure is being applied against the tailgate from a load of material within the truck bed. This is unlike some existing tailgate latches which can be rather difficult to unlatch when a load within the truck bed is applying pressure against the tailgate.

The teachings of the present invention can be applied to a wide range of tailgates for various types of vehicles, including pickup trucks, hatchbacks, station wagons, large commercial-type trucks, and other vehicles having a tailgate. Accordingly, the present invention should not be limited to use with any specific form/type of tailgate or vehicle. Plus, aspects of the present invention should also not be limited to just tailgates as the teachings of the present invention can be applied to a wide range of other types of doors, gates, panels, sliding doors, swinging doors, hinged doors, fence gates, cabinet doors, etc.

Certain terminology is used herein for purposes of reference only, and thus is not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper”, “lower”, “above”, and “below” refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as “front”, “back”, “rear”, “bottom” and “side”, describe the orientation of portions of the component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference which is made clear by reference to the text and the associated drawings describing the component under discussion. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms “first”, “second” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context.

When introducing elements or features of the present invention and the exemplary embodiments, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of such elements or features. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically noted.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention. 

1. An apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising a latch having a latching surface, the latch pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position, a keeper having a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface, and a member rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position, whereby rotation of the member from the first position towards the second position rotates the keeper such that, when the latching and keeper surfaces are engaged, the keeper causes pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby disengaging the latching and keeper surfaces.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the keeper includes a tang extending in a direction generally outwardly away from the keeper surface, wherein rotation of the member from the first position towards the second position rotates the keeper such that, when the latching and keeper surfaces are engaged, the tang contacts the latch causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby disengaging the latching and keeper surfaces.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the latch includes a camming surface generally opposite the latching surface, wherein the keeper includes a camming surface generally opposite the keeper surface, and wherein closing the tailgate positions the keeper's camming surface into contact with the latch's camming surface causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby allowing the latching surface to be moved across the keeper beyond the keeper surface for engaging the keeper surface.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the latch's camming surface is a generally slanted surface, and wherein the keeper's camming surface is a generally rounded surface.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot substantially aligned with the resultant of a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot disposed relative to the latching surface such that the moment created by a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface biases the latch towards the closed position.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot substantially aligned with the keeper's axis of rotation.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a stop having a first position in which the stop contacts the latch thereby inhibiting pivotal movement of the latch, and a second position in which the stop does not interfere with the pivotal movement of the latch.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the member comprises at least one substantially straight rod having a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with the tailgate's hinge axis, and wherein the rod is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the rod is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between the first and second positions.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the keeper is mounted at one end of the rod for common rotation therewith about the rod's longitudinal axis.
 11. A vehicle including the apparatus of claim
 1. 12. An apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising a latch having a latching surface and a camming surface generally opposite the latching surface, the latch pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position, and a keeper having a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface, a camming surface generally opposite the keeper surface, and a tang extending in a direction generally outwardly away from the keeper surface, whereby, upon rotation of the keeper when the latching and keeper surfaces are engaged, the tang contacts the latch causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby disengaging the latching and keeper surfaces, whereby closing the tailgate positions the keeper's camming surface into contact with the latch's camming surface causing pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby allowing the latching surface to be moved across the keeper beyond the keeper surface for engaging the keeper surface.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a member for rotating the keeper, the member rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position, whereby rotation of the member from the first position towards the second position rotates the keeper.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the member comprises at least one substantially straight rod having a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with the tailgate's hinge axis, and wherein the rod is rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the rod is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between the first and second positions.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the keeper is mounted at an end portion of the rod for common rotation therewith about the rod's longitudinal axis.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising a handle coupled to the rod for common rotation therewith for allowing a user to rotate the handle and the rod coupled thereto from the first position towards the second position.
 17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot substantially aligned with the keeper's axis of rotation.
 18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot substantially aligned with the resultant of a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface.
 19. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the latch is pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure with a pivot disposed relative to the latching surface such that the moment created by a load applied to the latching surface while engaged with the keeper surface biases the latch towards the closed position.
 20. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising a stop having a first position in which the stop contacts the latch thereby inhibiting pivotal movement of the latch, and a second position in which the stop does not interfere with the pivotal movement of the latch.
 21. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the latch's camming surface is a generally slanted surface, and wherein the keeper's camming surface is a generally rounded surface.
 22. A vehicle including the apparatus of claim
 12. 23. An apparatus for latching a tailgate to supporting structure of a vehicle, the apparatus comprising a member having a longitudinal axis substantially parallel with a hinge axis of the tailgate, the member rotatably supported by the tailgate such that the member is rotatable about its longitudinal axis between at least a first position and a second position, a handle coupled to the member for common rotation therewith for allowing a user to rotate the handle and the member coupled thereto from the first position towards the second position, a latch having a latching surface, the latch pivotably coupled to the vehicle supporting structure such that the latch is pivotable between at least a closed position and an opened position, a keeper mounted at an end portion of the member for common rotation therewith about the member's longitudinal axis, the keeper having a keeper surface configured for engagement with the latching surface, whereby rotation of the member from the first position towards the second position rotates the keeper such that, when the latching and keeper surfaces are engaged, the keeper causes pivotal movement of the latch from the closed position towards the opened position, thereby disengaging the latching and keeper surfaces. 